Best Bird Feeders: A Guide to Attract Cardinals

Cardinals are among the most beloved and popular birds in North America, known for their striking red plumage and beautiful songs. Attracting these birds to your yard can bring a burst of color and a sense of joy, especially during the winter months when many other birds have migrated south. One of the best ways to attract cardinals in your backyard is providing them with the right bird feeder and food. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best bird feeders for cardinals and offer tips on how to create an inviting environment for these stunning birds.

Cardinals’ Feeding Habits

Cardinals have multiple food resources and feeding ways. They have strong, thick beaks designed for cracking open seeds, which are their primary food source. Their favorite seeds include sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. Cardinals are medium-sized birds, so they need feeders that can fit their size and provide a stable perch. They are also territorial, especially during the breeding season, so several feeders might be necessary to avoid conflicts for them.

Bird Feeders for Cardinals

Birdfy bird feeder is a popular choice among our feathered friends and bird lovers. It is designed to accommodate a wide variety of bird species by providing a place for them to perch while they eat. These feeders are helpful to attract birds that prefer to have a secure spot to rest as they eat seeds or other types of food. Here's a detailed look at what makes perch feeders unique and why they are helpful for both birds and bird enthusiasts.

Birdfy Feeders

Birdfy is dedicated to high-quality smart bird feeders. The Birdfy Feeder, which is durable and weatherproof, has a solid perch and offers well-rounded feeding solutions. And a large 1.5L seed capacity will satisfy most feeding needs. For the reasons above, it has been picked up by most bird enthusiasts.
Equipped with a high-resolution camera and full-color night vision, Birdfy bird feeders allow you to capture close-ups of birds day and night. For more details, visit Birdfy Feeder. You can also share the joy of birdwatching with friends through the Birdfy app and enjoy cloud storage for recorded videos.

Some Tips to Place and Use a Bird Feeder to Attract Cardinals

Cardinals are beautiful and vibrant birds. Here’s how you can attract them using a bird feeder.

1 . Choosing a Better Location

Cardinals are somewhat cautious and prefer safe, quiet areas. Place your feeder:

Near Cover: Place it close to trees or shrubs where cardinals can quickly retreat if they get threatened. They also like to perch and observe before feeding.

At Eye Level: Position the feeder about 5-6 feet off the ground, making it easily accessible but safe from predators.

Sheltered Spot: Choose a place that is shielded from strong winds and harsh weather to keep the food dry and the birds comfortable.

2. Providing the Right Food

Cardinals have specific bird seed preferences. Fill your feeder with:

Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: These are high in fat and easy for cardinals to crack open.

Safflower Seeds : Cardinals love these seeds, and they are less appealing to squirrels and other unwanted birds.

Cracked Corn: This can be mixed in to add variety.

3. Maintenance and Care

Consistent care helps cardinals keep coming back:

Regular Cleaning: Clean the feeder at least once a week with a mild soap solution to prevent mold and disease.

Fresh Food Supply: Refill the feeder regularly to ensure there's always food available. Stale or moldy seeds should be discarded.

Ground Maintenance: Clean up fallen seeds and shells to prevent attracting pests and to keep the area tidy.

4. Creating a Cardinal-Friendly Environment in Your Backyard

We should make full use of our yard to invite more cardinals:

Water Source: Provide a birdbath or a shallow water dish. Cardinals are attracted to water for drinking and bathing.

Native Plants: Plant shrubs and trees that produce berries, like dogwood, serviceberry, and mulberry. These provide natural food sources and shelter.

Safe Space: Avoid using chemicals and pesticides in your yard. Keep cats and other pets away from the feeding area to create a safe environment.

5. Birdwatching and Enjoying

Be Patient: It may take some time for cardinals to discover your feeder. Be patient and maintain your feeder regularly.

Quiet Observation: Watch quietly from a distance. Cardinals are more likely to visit if they feel undisturbed.

By following these detailed steps, you can create a cardinal-friendly environment in your backyard, ensuring these stunning birds will visit and brighten your surroundings with their vibrant plumage and cheerful songs.